I am more confused about the Hijab than ever. I toured Turkey (totally Muslim)in 2006 and was told by the tour guide that the Hijab was not a religious requirement, it was more of cultural obligation. The tourist group only saw a few women wearing the Hijab in Istanbul; it was explained that they were from the countryside and had a limited understanding of Islam.

Hope them all the best.
Prophet Ebraham pbuh is revered
in Islam, Judaism and Christian
faiths.Compare between the books,
Koran and Bible,the main theme is
monoethism

Does anyone know how I can see this segment online? (I am not in Canada and unfortunatley don't get CBC.)

I am very interested in seeing how the topic (of a supposed Jewish woman covnverting to Islam) is covered...especially since Sandy was not born Jewish, but rather converted a few years ago to Judaism. Without having seen the segment yet, IMHO posing the question 'What is it like for a Jewish woman to convert to Islam and decide to wear the hijab?', is a bit misleading. Her poor son must be rightly confused about faith.

From my perspective as a muslim woman who wears a headscarve, hijab; it has become a controversial issue in a Canadian media, culture, and in society. Increasingly, wearing hijab requires a lot of compromise and sacrifise in work, school, and even in day to day activities. I do not know how long I can endure this situation and might leave Canada with a dark picture which is quite different from the one when I came to Canada. I was to enjoy the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedom. Thank You

I want to respond to Judith's confusion on Hijab. Covering head is obligatory for muslim women but there is a vast difference between islam and the actual practice of most muslims. It is obligatory but it cannot be forced by anyone. "Let there be no compulsion in religion: Truth stands out clear from error" (Quran 2:256)
If you want to know about islam then look into the two authentic sources of islam, The Quran and Sahih Hadith (sayings of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH)). Actually the reason why muslims around the world are in a pathetic situation is because we have left these two sources. There are, ofcourse, true followers of islam around us as well and there always will be. But if you want a practical example then the best follower of Islam by far was Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). You can study his life to know how a muslim is supposed to be.
I hope this helps.

Sorry, CBC News, but you've been had. This woman is a religious dilettante who converted to Judaism several years ago, and moved on when the novelty wore off. While one is hopeful that she finds a place for herself, it's unfortunate to see Judaism used in the presentation of untruths.

My wife started wearing Hijab after 911. Because of the perception of Hijab in the public, I was concerned about her safety and told her it was bad idea. She proved me wrong. Everyone at her work was supportive, Canadian public is well informed about Hijab and women wearing hijab are present in all kinds of work places.
Now, my two canadian born duaghters are wearing hijab almost everywhere without my influence. I beleive that having very good open communication between parents and children and education and gradual introduction of the hijab to our girls can reduce some of the tension.

GOD BLESS HER...welcome to Islam, sister.Your story brought tears in my eyes.

Perhaps the underlying question for this segment should have been 'What is faith?' Here we have someone born a mainstream Christian, who first converted to a liberal stream of Judaism and then to a more conservative branch of Islam. Is faith something we can only profess and process when identifying with a specific group?

Sandra, I do hope that Islam brings the peace to your soul that you have so desperately been looking for.

In response to Curious and Bunker. Selma/Sandra actually was born in a Jewish family and followed the Jewish faith from day 1. I think that is a fact that need to be cleared up. I hope we realize that this presentation was not made up and the facts stated are true. God bless everyone! Happy Holidays...

I have to commend CBC for airing this segment about the Hijab especially during a time when the controversy about it is raging with Aqsa Parvez’s tragic death. Special thanks to Carole MacNeil and Evan Solomon for dispelling the myths and misconceptions about the Hijab. Chapter‘The light’, verse 21 in the Quran states clearly, “And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their private parts from sin and not show of their adornment except only that which is apparent, and draw their headcovers over their necks and bosoms and not reveal their adornment…”.

This documentary of Sandra's conversion is truly an eye opener for many who have fallen pray to the "myths of hijab". Very informative and well presented. I congratulate CBC for enlightening and educating Canadians on one of the many reasons people convert to Islam and why muslim women decide to wear the hijab. Great Job Salma!!! See you at the "Reviving the Islamic Spirit Conference" next week!!!

Allah says in Surah Araf--

O Children of Adam! We have bestowed raiment upon you to cover yourselves (screen your private parts, etc.) and as an adornment, and the raiment of righteousness, that is better. Such are among the Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) of Allâh, that they may remember (i.e. leave falsehood and follow truth).(8:26)

O Children of Adam! Let not Shaitân (Satan) deceive you, as he got your parents [Adam and Hawwa (Eve)] out of Paradise, stripping them of their raiments, to show them their private parts. Verily, he and Qabîluhu (his soldiers from the jinns or his tribe) see you from where you cannot see them. Verily, We made the Shayâtin (devils) Auliyâ’ (protectors and helpers) for those who believe not. (8:27)

In response to Curious and Bunker. Selma/Sandra actually was born in a Jewish family and followed the Jewish faith from day 1. I think that is a fact that need to be cleared up. I hope we realize that this presentation was not made up and the facts stated are true. God bless everyone! Happy Holidays...

Adam, I am not sure how long you have known Selma/Sandra, but I am afraid it is true, she was not born in a Jewish family, nor did she follow the Jewish faith from day 1...she converted to Judaism not so many years ago.

If converting to Islam gives her the answers she has been looking for, then she has finally found her place. Yet, that does not change the fact that she first converted to Judaism from Christianity.

With all due respect, explaining her story as a Jewish woman who chose Islam is not an honest depiction of her real life, although I am not sure what she is gaining by misleading people. I am not trying to be slanderous against Salma/Sandra, I am simply stating the facts. She must have know that there are many people watching CBC who have known her for years.

Islam is no abstract term or a term that ties you to a group of people or person. Islam precisely means submission to God.

(His name being Allah. Al = The, ilah = diety. so therefor The (unique and true) dieity of mankind.)

This is what the Arabic word precisely means - no change about it.

Anything submitting its will to God is a Muslim (one who 'Islams' ie submits their will to Allah).

There is no abstract interpretation of the term.

So for Example: if Abraham (pbuh) said and meant "I want to do only what God wants me to do and not my own selfish desires" then he would be following the way of life known as Islam therefore this makes him a ....

yes, Muslim!

It is a way of life going back to Adam (pbuh) and Eve (pbuh). As Muslims we know that all God's Prophets (pbuaot) were infact Muslim - Following God's will and not worshiping anything else including their own desires! This is true Monotheism.

Another Prophet (pbuh) (as he is called in the bible) says something to the effect "I come not to do my will but the will of The Father(God)" In the Arabic language this is Islamic making him a Muslim. I'm no expert on bible so ask any Christian with knowledge of the 'scripture'.

What was Abraham? A Jew? A Christian?

No, these labels are no contracts with God.

Only worship You're Creator - The One that was never EVER born but everything comes from Him.

God Bless and may the peace of God be with you

What difference does it make if she was born to a Jewish family or not? Would that make her more Jewish and conversion less? Should I get the sense from previous posts that people born to a Jewish family would not convert to Islam? It is not unheard of that Jewish people convert to Islam.

This is a response to Judith about her experience in Turkei (AKA Turkey). First of all, you can not assume this tour guide has all the facts and correct information about Islamic rules or else why is he/she working as a tour guide and not an Imam in one of the many mosques in Turkei?
Second, There are many places on earth where Muslims are the majority but the country is not necessarily being run Islamically. Just like North America is predominately Christian, yet it is inaccurate to state that we run our society according to all the rules of Christianity. Just like in North America, you can get accurate information about a facet of religious rules from random workers like tour guides and that Muslim guy in the grocery store. To do so is to show complete disrespect for the religious institution in question.
I advise anyone with questions to seek a properly educated Islamic teacher, called an "imam" at a the local "masjid or Mosque" in their town.

I am Sandra's sister. It is clear that "Adam" above does not know my sister at all. We were born Canadian to German, Anglican parents. Nobody in my family was or is Jewish. We were not raised with Religon. My sister did not lead a "religous" life until about 5 years ago or so, when she decided to convert to become Jewish. D. Bunker and Curious obviously know my sister and are correct with their comments. In the 70s my sister did not listen to Cat Stevens, but rather enjoyed the music of Marianne Faithful, the Stones, Meatloaf and Van Halen. My sister first went to Delhi in order to obtain information about attending the University of Delhi, the cost of which is substantially less than a Canadian University. This is when she first was introduced to the faith she is now choosing to lead. I too hope she has found happiness and will stick with the faith she has now chosen to be part of.

I am Sandra's sister and want to clear up some of the issues above. Adam is wrong. Bunker and Curious hit the nail on the head. We were born Canadian and our parents were born in Germany. We were Anglican but were never raised with Religon. My sister lead a life far from Relgion and in the 70s, her choice of music was not Cat Stevens but Marianne Faithful, the Stones, Van Halen and Meatloaf. My sister only started to practice Religon about 5 years ago or so, when she decided to convert to Jewish. Nobody in our family was or is Jewish and this story is misleading. My sister went to Delhi in November 2005 to inquire about attending the University of Delhi, which offered courses at a substantially lower cost than our Universities. This is when she decided to leave the Jewish faith and start her new journey. I wish her happiness and hope she will stick with this choice. It would be interesting for CBC to follow up on this story in a couple of years to see if Sandra is still wearing the hijab.

just to clarify somthing people.

if you watch the clip closely again, it doesnt say that sandra converted to judiasm, she was born jewish, so before making all these comments, please know what you are talking about.

i admire your courage and your personality salma.

Rashidah, just to clarify my points while answering your questions:

1. What difference does it make if she was born to a Jewish family or not?

First of all, she told a story about coming from a Jewish family that survived the war, and being raised Jewish, etc. This is not only false, but as the child of survivors of the war who was raised Jewish in Canada when 'diversity' was an unknown term, I find it disrespectful. She has trivialised an experience that is truly profound.

Secondly, portraying herself as a Jewish woman who converted to Islam is misleading. She was 'Jewish' only briefly, which in my humble opinion, does not constitute being Jewish.

If Sandra/Salma decides to become a Buddist monk 5 years from now, does she have the 'authority' to speak as a Muslim woman who decided to become a Buddist monk?

2. Would that make her more Jewish and conversion less?

Actually, in my opinion, she was not more or less Jewish, but not Jewish at all. Her conversion was not 'less', but obviously not sincere or commited (which are criteria for converting).

3. Should I get the sense from previous posts that people born to a Jewish family would not convert to Islam? It is not unheard of that Jewish people convert to Islam.

Sorry if I was unclear, I never meant to infer that people born to a Jewish family would not convert to Islam. Personally, I have always felt that in essence Judaism and Islam have more in common than they have with Christianity (...but that is a topic for another day). However, as a Jew, I take offense at Sandra/Salma portraying herself as a Jew when she is not.

I agree with you that it is not unheard of to find Jews who have converted to Islam. Hence, if the story's objective was to portray a Jewish woman who converts to Islam and decides to wear a hijab, I am sure there was someone more 'authentic' out there to interview.

Yes, Ahmed, that is the problem...she didn't say she converted to Judaism (which she did), she said she was born and raised Jewish (which she wasn't).

Caren, thanks for speaking up. I also wish her happiness...and would like to see CBC follow up on this story in a couple of years to see if Sandra is still wearing the hijab. Your father said it all when he was asked if he was surprised by her conversion and choice to wear a hijab.

Ahmed, I'm telling you she was not born Jewish. The clip is misleading and is wrong. I know because I am her sister. It is too bad CBC didn't follow up on all of the information in the clip before airing it. There are a few inconsistencies in this clip. I can also tell you that if my father knew how this clip was going to be presented, he would not have participated. The best thing at this point would be to remove this whole clip and article from this website.

Hijab is the most important and religious obligation in Islam. There are 1 type people: 1. who does not know about islam, he will use the hijab bliendly and
2. who does not know nothing about islam, he may not use the hijab.
But brother and sister please learn more about Islam. Islam is the only and ultimate solution in life. every thing will fail except this. take a look around you.

Well Well....methinks this segment has stirred the pot quite a bit. Let me just say that after having discussed the piece with several friends, the general concencus is that it really makes no difference what religion or denomonation salma has chosen for herself because what she has been seeking is safe haven in a spiritual sense and she just happened to find it in Islam. The fact that she has experienced various religions makes me feel that she is far more able to make an informed and educated choice on where she wishes to lay her head at the end of the day. I feel that the nay-sayers here are just splitting hairs and should realize that they are only looking out through their own glass houses. I can't leave this post without saying to "caren" shame on you for not having your sister's back, maybe a little spiritual guidence from Salma would do you a world of good.

Congratulation Salma you are one of the luckiest woman that God call you to Islam and sent you someone to enlighten your spirit and your mind to explain to you what is Islam you deserve to be may God and his messenger Mohammad (Salla Allah Alayhe Wasallam) preserve you and your family

Bravo Salma!

As a convert to Islam in 1993 I traveled somewhat of the same journey. Alhamdillah I wore my scarf the first day of my Shahadah and I have never taken it off. May Allah always quide you. Ameen

Dee, you may choose to support a person who has not told the truth on national tv but when my family is brought into a story (and I mean a story), then I'm going to correct it. Why would I have my sister's back when she has disrespected my family? You may support someone who disrespects their family, but that doesn't say a whole lot about you as a person. Shame on you. To clarify, my paternal grandpa served for Germany in the War. He wasn't put in a concentration camp, he was put in a Russian war camp. My other grandpa died serving for Germany in the war. My parents never changed their names (other than to shorten a very long first name), nor did we move around alot. We only lived in three areas in 40+ years. My sister was baptised Anglican. The background story used in this article is just not true, and that has taken away from the real purpose of the story. Had my sister just told her story about wanting to switch to the Islam faith and how excited she is to wear a hijab, that would have been sufficient. Dee, get all of your information straight before judging people. I suggested CBC should have researched the story, maybe you should too.

Dee, no spirtual guidance needed here. Just the truth. You may choose to support a person who uses misleading and false information to gain attention on national tv, but I will not. When false information about my family is brought into the story (and I mean a story), then I'm not going to support it, and in fact will correct it. Why would I have my sister's back when she has told untruths about our family and her upbringing? What does she possibly have to gain by stating these untrue facts in a story that is supposed to be about the Islam faith? She has taken away from the real purpose of the story. You may be the type of person that supports someone who disrespects their family and doesn't tell the truth, but that doesn't say a whole lot about you as a person. Shame on you, rather than shame on me. I am not shameful at all for supporting my family. To clarify the background information, my paternal grandpa served for Germany in the War. He wasn't put in a concentration camp, he was put in a Russian war camp. My other grandpa died serving for Germany in the war. My parents never changed their names (other than to shorten a very long first name), nor did we move around alot. We only lived in three areas in 40+ years. My sister was baptised Anglican. Had my sister just told her story about wanting to switch to the Islam faith and how excited she is to wear a hijab, that would have been sufficient. Like I said before, had my father known what was going to be said about our family, he would not have participated in this story. I truly hope the Islam faith will finally bring piece and a sense of belonging to my sister.

Judith, Hijab is obligatory in Islam. Your tour guide was either confused, or mis-informed about the correct ruling of Hijab.

I congratulate Salma (Sandra) for making the most important decision in her life and may she be blessed with happiness and prosperity in this life and the next life. Her unfortunate experience with the few Muslims making the SAD comment "who is the White person pretending to be Muslim" is TOTALLY SAD. I think we need to work not only to educated the non-Muslims but our own Muslim community as well. As I was reading some of the posting and the first comment I read was about a tour guide in Turkey saying that head scarf is not required in Islam and the women wear it because they did not understand Islam, is my case exactly. People like this strongly indicates that we need to work with-in our Muslim communities as well. So I petty the people that are making ignorant comments about their other Muslim brothers and sisters and those who misrepresent their religion to others.

WaSalam Ualikum,

Mustafa

Once again CBC has shown its dedication to represent the stories from both perspectives which is a very courageous step and sadly not followed up by the rest of the media.
Please stay on the path to represent the truth as you have always done so.
There is a saying of the Prophet Mohammed “do not judge the person who lost one eye, see other on also who may have lost the both eyes”
This means that always evaluate both sides before making any conclusions.

Javed Mughal
Toronto, Canada

I thanked my friend for emailing me CBC Sunday's segment on Hijab. As usual I had noticed the unwarranted media blitz on the Hijab and its associated Islamphobia. Now CBC has aired the subject segment seemingly to neutralize its impact. And no sooner we start circulating the segment in the muslim community. This all seems to be a part of a gameplan to start a smear campaign against Islam and then air few fair episodes to pretend honest journalism.
I hope and pray that one day journalism and /or the media will be utilized to eradicate the evils of the society we are living in. I felt sorry for the killing of an elderly man in Kitchener few days back who was distributing gifts in the holiday season. A media blitz on such a cruel act would go a long way in raising the moral awareness in the soceity at large. Alas if the media pundits would ponder on it.
Regards, Ghazenfer

There are many posts congratulating Sandra for her choice, praising wearing the hijab, and insinuating that there is only one truth. However, Sandra has been shown to be a fraud, and has not even bothered to justify her less than admirable behaviour. Is there no one in the Muslim community offended by her deceit?

Sandra, don’t you think you owe an apology for your dishonesty? If not, you obviously haven’t learned anything in your multiple spiritual journeys.

Miriam and Sandra, you are both lucky to be able to choose to wear the hijab. Many Muslim women are not given the choice. Many women suffer greatly because they choose not to wear the hijab, or worse, like Aqsa Pervez, have their lives taken from them by fanatical fathers or brothers. You should feel lucky to have the choice to wear (or not) the hijab. Yet, given that choice you should also feel obliged to support Muslim women who choose not to wear it. Your actions and words, or lack thereof, have done more damage than good to other Muslim women.

I have not seen one post praising the choice to wear the hijab while condemning men who feel they have the right to impose the hijab on women. From the posts here should I come to the conclusion that a woman who lies but wears the hijab is a better Muslim than one who is honest but chooses not to wear it?

Are there no voices in the Muslim community willing to speak up?

Curious I am not the fraud you claim I am. I was indeed of the Judaic faith prior to my conversion to Islam and this fact is well documented. I am not sure where you get your information about me and I am also not sure where my sister gets hers either. My sister has not spoken to me for over 20 years and only recently did so because of my mother's death in 2005. Unfortunately, communication was very brief and did not survive the test of time.

Since the 1990's, until my conversion to Islam, I was very active within the Jewish community and did so with the blessing and encouragement of my paternal grandfather. I was a board member for several NGOs that dealt with issues concerning violence against women, poverty and children's education both locally and internationally. I participated regularly in weekly services, my son attended Hebrew school and on occasion, I read from the Torah at services. I believe this will satisfy all questions regarding my religous background prior to coming to Islam.

My conversion to Islam and my choice to wear the hijab was a decision that was not made lightly. There was a tremendous amount of soul searching to ensure I was on the right path for me. As I now live my life as a Muslim I continue to participate within my community, both as a student and as an advocate for social issues.

Curious, if you had watched the entire segment you would have heard my comment about the Parvez tragedy and a women's right to wear or not wear the hijab.

In closing you and my sister, through your malicious posts, have taken away any opportunity for a proper and meaningful discussion about the hijab. Shame on both of you for your selfish acts. May God grant you what you deserve in your heart.

I also would like to congratulate Salma on her conversion to Islam and her choice to wear the hijab. May Allah bless you sister! If anyone had something to apologize for, it would be you Mr. Curious. Seriously, don't you and Caren have more important things to worry about?

your right curious we should speak up, so i would like to say to our star salma congratulations for choosing islam, and congratulations for wearing the hijab. its a blessing for you to be a muslim and an honor for the muslim community to gain an honest, sincere, and active individual like yourself, unlike curious and caren whos motives are selfishness and hatred, and thats the bottom line.

Just a note to "curious".
Now I'm curious, why don't you sign your post with your real first name?
Care to tell us who you are or are you just going to hide behind your vindictive and nasty posts?

This is for Judith,
No wonder a touristic guide in Turkey would confuse you about the hijab for he, himself, seems to be confused about his own job: knowing about his country!Well, his country's "First lady", not a "Country Wife", to my austere knowleage, puts a kind of a hijab! As a matter of fact, all the wives of the governing party which, again to my austere knowledge,are not all "country wives" . Second of all, Turkey has been suffering from the most extremist secular regime in the world and it it should not be taken as a reference. The fact that the sun might not rise in Montreal for an entire winter week does not make a possible claim by a Saudi, for example, who happened to visit Montreal during that same winter week, the Sun never shines in Canada, a fact!
In Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, and others, rural women, because of their addition do not conform to the Islamic obligation of the hijab. Indeed, urban women put the hijab and the niqab Inchallah, one day you will have the chance to visit Cairo, Alger, Casa Blanca, Riyadh, Amman, Damascus, and you will enjoy the trut!
Let us understand that when a Muslim man decides to have a beard he is most of the time enjoying it religiously and physically! The same for the majority of Muslim women who put the niqab or the hijab! Although there exists some exceptions, they put them out of their own conviction and choice.
Well it happens that some Muslims are unfortunately abusing their religion through henimous acts of terrorism and political recationism to an unjust world and political hypocricy...
But this is universal: Christians with all their sects and denominations have their own abusers, Jews, Hindus, Sikhs...Liberals, Conservatives,..
Last, but not least, why there is such unfair media coverages, stereotypes, demonizations of the entire Muslim community if an isolated act is commiteed by a single member!
Respect for all, Justice for All, Canada for All!

With due RESPECT,
A. H

Sandra/Salma,

My posts have not been malicious, they have only been true to my name; curious. I am curious to know why you made up so many details in the story you told on CBC, and why are you sticking to that story now.

I must admit, I am also curious to know what motivated you to first covert to Judaism, and then to Islam. I am curious to know why you chose to wear the hijab. And after reading some of the posts in here, I am curious to know why so many people are willing to accept one person’s truth without questioning it (which unfortunately seems to be on the increase in our society).

As I said in previous posts, I wish you success and happiness in your newfound faith. However, I also wish that you would set the facts of your story straight.

Sandra/Salma,

Fraud –

1 a: deceit, trickery; specifically : intentional perversion of truth in order to induce another to part with something of value or to surrender a legal right b: an act of deceiving or misrepresenting : trick

2 a: a person who is not what he or she pretends to be : impostor; also : one who defrauds : cheat b: one that is not what it seems or is represented to be

You, and your sister and I all know that much of what you told on the CBC segment was not the truth. Regarding ‘Caren’, if her details were so far from the truth, then how did you know it was your sister? You can call me what you like, but it won’t change the fact that you made yourself out to be something that you are not. Sanda/Salma, given the definition, I believe the term fits.

Sandra/Salma,
Until now I have tried to respectfully question your (mis)representation on CBC, and promote dialogue on a few of the issues that other posters brought up. You and other posters have only detracted from the original questions I posed with half-truths and further inflated facts.

Now, in your post I see that instead of saying you were Jewish, you say that you were “of the Judaic faith”. Yet, you conveniently omit explaining for how long. You have gone from telling outright lies to telling half-truths. Why won’t you admit that you actually converted to Judaism? What are you gaining? God was not the only witness.

My posts have not been malicious, they have only been true to my name; curious. I am curious to know why you made up so many details in the story you told on CBC, and why are you sticking to that story now.

I must admit, I am also curious to know what motivated you to first covert to Judaism, and then to Islam. I am curious to know why you chose to wear the hijab. And after the posts in here, I am curious to know why so many people are willing to accept one person’s truth without questioning it (which unfortunately seems to be on the increase in our society).

As I said in previous posts, I wish you success and happiness in your newfound faith. However, I also wish that you would set the facts of your story straight.

To ‘a voice…’ and ‘another voice in the muslim community’, I have nothing to apologise for, and my motive is definitely not hatred; I once considered Sandra/Salma a friend, and she could attest that ‘hate’ isn’t something I do easily. However, I will admit a little selfishness.

I knew Sandra/Salma before she converted to Judaism. Yes, I could have kept my mouth shut and let her save face. However, I am posting in here not for the interesting dialogue, but basically because I was personally offended by her less than truthful story. I don’t know what she has to gain by telling lies.

........................................

And to ‘Dee’, I don’t sign my name because Sandra/Salma knows me. I think you should read my posts again. They posts aren’t nasty or vindictive; they are just highlighting a few lies, and questioning a few blind ‘truths’. The last time I checked, all 3 monotheistic religions still considered honesty a desirable quality.

Congratulations Salma/Sandra, God bless you! I would like to reply to Curious by saying that I am a Muslim living in America and I praise Miriam and Sandra for wearing the hijab, I do not yet, but hopefully, in the near future I will. I take no offense by Salma and Miriam's posts. My mother wears the hijab, that does not mean that she thinks she is better than me. We are all loyal Muslims, and that is what's important and I am proud of Miriam and Salma and all of the other Muslim women for wearing the Hijab :-)
Also, not in many Muslim countries are women forced to wear a hijab or a niqab. In most of the Middle East, for example, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan...(I could only think of those from the top of my head), but in most Muslim countries (of course it depends ont the family) women have full freedom on whether they want to wear the hijab...it is their choice. Thank you and Eid Mubarak!

Congrates,sister Salma on accepting Islam,and thank Allah to give you the guidence to enter Islam during your life before its too late.

Congratulations Salma/Sandra, God bless you! I would like to reply to Curious by saying that I am a Muslim living in America and I praise Miriam and Sandra for wearing the hijab, I do not yet, but hopefully, in the near future I will. I take no offense by Salma and Miriam's posts. My mother wears the hijab, that does not mean that she thinks she is better than me. We are all loyal Muslims, and that is what's important and I am proud of Miriam and Salma and all of the other Muslim women for wearing the Hijab :-)
Also, not in many Muslim countries are women forced to wear a hijab or a niqab. In most of the Middle East, for example, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan...(I could only think of those from the top of my head), but in most Muslim countries (of course it depends on the family) women have full freedom on whether they want to wear the hijab...it is their choice. Thank you and Eid Mubarak!

Welcome to Islam, Salma. This is a very beautiful story and I am very glad that CBC has covered it in a very respectful manner. Like all muslim women that wear the Hijab in Canada, I think Salma has made a very good choice. Hijab is not a symbol of male dominance. It is not a cultural thing, or a challenge to the politcal system. Hijab is necessary in Islam because it brings modesty into one's life and helps preserve one's dignity. Hijab is not only a cloth covering one's head, but infact it is one's state of mind, behaviour, and lifestyle. Modesty is when a person is repelled from doing any wrong, and instead chooses to preserve her dignity. I am sorry to say but the media has made Hijab into a very huge deal, and has made Hijab into a symbol of oppression! It may be true that in some third world countries that women are oppresed, but just because THEY wear hijab doesn't mean that all women in the world that wear Hijab are oppressed women. It is just like saying that all people in Canada live in igloos. That may sound true to people who don't have any idea about Canada, but not to those who are Canadians. We don't live in igloos and nor are all women that wear Hijab are oppressed. So to all those who beleive in the "myths" about Hijab: Learn about it before you make up your minds! Here is a good place where you can read some stuff about Hijab: http://www.youngmuslims.ca/publications/hijab.asp
I hope that I have given some clarifications about the reality of Hijab.

I must appreciate this nice exchanges amongst readers of this news.

However,it is very interesting to see how sister's Salma's choice for Islam spurred such curiosity.

I do congratulate her and wish her all happiness

sallam!
the story of salma touches my heart.it made me think of myself who was born muslim but never bothers to wear hijab.i just want to tell salma you're great!! welcome into the fold of islam.

Head scarf or Hijab ,as it is now wll known,is not due to a limited understanding of Islam nor is it practised by women in the countryside.Hijab is prescribed in the Quran and the traditions of Muhammad pbuh.Two verses in the Quran make it obligatory:one in chapter 24 called "Light" verse 31 and the other in chapter 33 called "The parties" verse 59.The Prophet of Islam commanded Muslim women to observe Hijab.So it is a fallacy to claim Hijab as an act of culture of as a reflection of living in the countryside.
Even Virgin Mary is portrayed as wearing a head scarf ;so are the Christian nuns,and commited Jewish women.So Hijab is an act of worship in obedience to God ALmighty.

Great realization that the people of Isreal are also of Arabic DNA. great to know that she realizaes that a religion is NOT in your DNA!!!
LILLI

I find it really sad that some people are so offended by the fact that a Jewish woman converted to Islam that they have to make up stories!
And even if your story is true it does not make any difference. My best friend was orthodox Jew. Her parents raised her between Israel and the US. They told her the most grewsome stories about muslims and tried as much as they can to paint the grimmest picture of Muslims to her. she couldn't believe there were people out there as evil as her parents described, she became so curious. She wanted to find out for herself what muslims were like.
Through school we later started talking and became good friend, she also made friends with other muslims. All the misconceptions her parents told her about muslims fell apart. The more she read and got to know muslims the more she loved it. She saw how much it made sense, she saw how tolerant Islam was of other religions because it had nothing to be afraid of. And so by the will of God she became muslims and has been for the past 5 years.

I'd just like to say, Praise be to God, I also wear the hijab, like Salma, and millions of other Muslim women, out of my own will. There should be no compulsion in religion and there is no compulsion in true Islam.

First of all i know that Salma is a real muslim because her husband used to be the imam at my masjid in Delaware. I beleive Salmathat she is truly a muslim, plus, why would anyone go through all of this just to lie? Anyways i hope them all the best and may Allah fill the rest of their lives with happiness. Ameen!

Ludicrous way to propogate the mental slavery of women. Hijab is a cultural dress code for women in the Arab lands and Middle East. Hijab has nothing to with Islam per se.

First of all, congratulations to Salma for finding peace in her life via Islam.
Secondly, congratulations to CBC for this segment on the Hijab because it is important for people to be educated about things that they don't know about so that when they encounter them they are not fearful.

I am a Canadian born Muslim women who chooses to wear the Hijab and i am very proud of my choice. I am not compelled to because of my husband infact i am divorced and have been now for 10 years. A women chooses to wear it for the sake of ALLAH not for other people. I feel that if a women has the right to go topless in this society, what is the big deal if i choose to be conservative in my dress.

It is sad that people have missed the boat on this segment. This not about salma being Jewish or not, converting to Islam and sticking with it or not...who really cares.

This is about a man who murdered his daughter supposedly because she did not choose to wear the Hijab. If this is ture or not.... I cannot say. What i can speak to is that the Hijab is a choice made freely and Allah is the only one permitted to take a life, no one else.
If people took the time to learn more about Islam and women then they would see that we are just like all other women in the world. Ultimately it is what is in our hearts that really matters!
Sincerely
Rose

Heba, what right do you have to judge whether I am telling the truth or Sandra is? I am sorry, but it does make a difference if her story was true or not. Apart from misleading the public, she told lies and then had the audacity to call me malicious and selfish for highlighting the truth. Since no one has bothered to check her story, I can only come to the conclusion that people no longer care about the truth, just a good story.

As for the story of your friend, there are a lot of stupid people (and parents) out there, of all faiths. She obviously didn’t get the same education I got growing up in a Jewish home. The education we receive and the lessons we learn from it depend more on the messenger than the faith one follows.

You also say that your friend saw how tolerant Islam was of other religions. That may be true. However, Islam is no more or no less tolerant than other religions. All religions can show themselves to be fairly tolerant and incredibly intolerant of other religions. Once again, the message depends on the messenger.

Lilli, the ‘people of Israel’ are not of ‘Arabic DNA’. Both Arabs and Jews are Semites. One thing is one’s cultural identity and genetic lineage, another is the faith one embraces.

R.S., your logic that 'Salma is a real muslim because her husband is an imam' may prove that she has undergone a recognised coversion, and that part of her story is true. However, that does not mean she told the truth about being born and raised Jewish. I also have no idea why she would lie about her background.

S. Ikmal, I wouldn't necessarily agree that it is a way to propagate mental slavery to woman in all cases. There are many Muslim men and countries that oblige their women to wear the hijab, which is an oppressive mandate created by men, not written in the Qu’ran. (For the hijab promoters from previous posts in here, sorry, but you cannot argue that all women have the choice to wear or not wear the hijab...it is an obligation for far too many women who would not wear it given the choice). However, I would agree (as do many Islamic scholars) that the hijab has become a part of a cultural dress code, coming from the customs of Arab countries and not a requirement in Islam (it was a requirement for the wives of Mohammed, not other women). Curiously, it is being promoted not just by the most conservative of Muslims, but by the ‘newcomers’ to Islam (i.e. The ‘reborn’ and the converts) as well.

Curious, the Hijab is definitely part of Islam. It has become part of the culture, but it is surely surely part of Islam. Not only did the wives of Mohammad wear the Hijab. I will show you some verses of the Qur'an in which Allah demands that women wear the Hijab.

"O Prophet, tell your wives and daughters and the believing women to draw their outer garments around them (when they go out or are among men). That is better in order that they may be known (to be Muslims) and not annoyed..." (Qur'an 33:59).

"Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that will make for greater purity for them; and Allah is well acquainted with all that they do. And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; and that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what must ordinarily appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their beauty except to their husbands..." (Qur'an 24:30-31)

Does that make it clear that Hijab is a part of Islam, its a part of the religion.

Jazak Allah Khair Salma sister welcome to Islam. When ever a person in this world commit a good act there follows lots of critics and people always try their best to prove that the person is wrong in doing so. You know the truth and Allah knows it too just follow your heart do not worry about this mockery world they will realise it some day. May Allah bless you and your family a very happy and properous life Insha Allah.

I would just like to add a few words to the many interpretations of Hijab.
To me it is the liberation of a woman which allows her to be seen from a respectable perspective rather than just a physical object.If women have the right to expose they should also the right to cover.

First off, I'd just like to say Salam, and welcome. Since I was born muslim(and not forced to wear hijab, though I do), its interesting to hear what its like to convert. I think it would be cool if you wrote a book. That way people wouldnt argue the details( which, btw, really ruins the essence of her message), and we could get the full story.
Anyways, congrats, I hope you're comfortable with your new life.

I am so proud of Salmar. I admire her description of 'her journey' . My journey has taken 60 years. I feel that Salmar has given back to me all the lost time.
Salam Alaikoum
Suzan

Sara, as I said in a previous post, it all depends on the messenger.

For instance, in the translation of the passage I have from Qur'an 24:30-31, the word ‘beauty’ is not mentioned. It may be just a word, but it does have quite an impact on the interpretation.

In the quote from Qur'an 33:59, you could have continued with, “Alla is ever forgiving and merciful. If the hypocrites and those who have the ailment [of jealousy] in their hearts and the scandal mongers of Madinah do not desist, We will rouse you against them, and their days in that city will be numbered. Cursed be they; wherever found, they would be seized and put to death.”

Once again, the impact of a message depends on the messanger.

Nisath, the only wrongdoing here was Sandra’s fabricated story, and the subsequent false insinuations and accusations that I have done something wrong.

No one has criticised her for converting to Islam.

She has been criticised for telling lies and for pretending to be something she is not. Yes, I am sure she knows the truth in her heart, and Alla knows too…her conversion to Islam may be true, but the rest of it was far from the truth.

I am curious, what does the Qur’an say about those who tell lies?

I agree Shaheda, if a woman has the right to expose herself, she also has the right to cover herself. I am in favour of the right to choose, and that right should be granted to far too many women who are forced to wear the hijab by the men in their families, the imams in their mosques, or others in their communities.

When you say that the hijab allows a woman “to be seen from a respectable perspective”, from whose perspective were you referring to?

I have to say that I don’t have my head covered (and women in my culture traditionally cover their heads). My work requires me to deal with a lot more men than women, and I usually feel respected (which in my business means they consider me respectable). Our interaction has always been respectable and with mutual respect. Btw, I am considered attractive, and have never been made to feel like ‘just a physical object’.

I find it rather disturbing that in the year 2008, and in a society that has made so many advancements in woman’s rights, someone could actually try to rationalise that covering a woman’s beauty is the way she will be considered respectable.

It takes a lot more than wearing the hijab for someone to be respectable, and respected (and that includes all people, men and women).

I beg to differ, Sherine. The essence of the CBC segment and Sandra’s message was about a Jewish woman, born to a Jewish family (that survived the war, in Germany no less), who decided to convert to Islam.

I wish we could get the full story too. Why did she lie about being Jewish? Why won’t she admit that she converted to Judaism before converting to Islam? Is it somehow a greater achievement to have converted a Jew? Or would the credibility of her commitment to her newfound faith be diminished if people knew that this is her second conversion in very few years?

Anyone ever notice how we're always shown people who converted to Islam? Here where I live, there are plenty who convert to Judaism, but we don't put them on display.

Maybe because we're not always trying to prove something?

Asalam 3leikoum,
As a person born to a Jewish family both mother & father & now a convert to Islam along with my wife & 4 kids alhumdulilah I would like to congratulate my sister Salma & my brother (Salma's husband).
Ethnicity means nothing in Islam & we judge people by their acts of taqwa(piety).
I can promise you this that the Moghdubi Aleyheem will continue to bother you. as they did with Abdullah ibn Salam r.a,Prophet Issa alehi w salam,etc etc.
Hayakoum allah,
Your Brother in Islam Yousef
http://www.al-buruj.com

Wearing the Hijab is a fulfillment of the directive of God that women cover up their head. Weather it improves or lessen the beauty of women is another kettle of fish. And mind you, beauty is relative; what is beautiful to you may be ugly to another.
Salam.

Curious, there are many words in the Qur'an that have more than one meaning, and therefore, they can be interpreted differently, you're right. But i'm telling you that that is the right parable from the Qur'an. I could have continued of course, but I got this parable from an Islamic website, and I did not read on. It's not meant purposely.

In the Islamic religion, hijab is a requirement and it is a woman's choice. If the family is forcing it upon the woman, they are wrong...that does not mean Islam is wrong, nor the hijab. Also, many women have experienced annoying comments from men (and not Muslim men). To us, the hijab means respect, and I hope that you respect that. Don't you agree that its what's inside that counts?

As far as lies, no one should lie in Islam. I hope that Salma did nothing wrong, but God forgive her. It does not matter if anyone converted from Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, etc. He/she converted to Islam, and that's what counts.

Wearing the Hijab is a fulfillment of the directive of God that women cover up their head. Weather it improves or lessen the beauty of women is another kettle of fish. And mind you, beauty is relative; what is beautiful to you may be ugly to another.
Salam.

My name is sara ... & I am a 15 year old teenager ... I had never been interested in such stories ... but your story is really interesting & touching. InshAllah your son converts as well cuz as far as I heard he has not ... hope he will =) ... may God bless you & lead you to the right path. U've done a great job!

You have a point, Joseph. Lately there is a lot of publicity given to those who convert to Islam. I am not sure if they are trying to prove something, or if it is a well-orchestrated PR move to convince the world of the virtues of Islam over other beliefs.

Mazel tov, Yousef al-Khattab. Perhaps the CBC should have done the segment on you if they wanted a story about a Jew converting to Islam.

You say that in Islam you judge people by acts of piety. (Which btw, is no different than the essence of your sister religions, Judaism and Christianity.) Is it pious to lie or be deceitful? Is it pious to accuse others falsely?

You and many other here seem to be bonded by a refusal to accept the truth, and I have to wonder why…

Suraj, my comment about the word ‘beauty’ was in response to a discrepancy between Sara’s translation of a quote from the Qu’ran and mine. My translation did not show the word ‘beauty’. Apologies if it wasn’t clear, but I was not remarking on whether the hijab improves or lessens a woman’s beauty. On another note, I completely agree, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Sara (Jan 6, 08 09:19 AM), thank you for your reply (and for understanding my point). As with all texts, the words are open for interpretation; the problems start when some claim to posses the true interpretation, disclaiming the rest.

On the subject of women experiencing annoying comments, IMHO, wearing the hijab, or any other type of physical ‘barrier’ will not change a man’s behaviour. Personally, I believe that education is the key to healthy interactions between men and women, or between cultures. However, if it gives you a sense of respect, of course I respect that. And yes, the inside is what counts.

I imagined that Islam doesn’t condone telling lies. Hence, I am not sure why everyone is blindly sticking by Salma’s fabricated story, and so quick to slander my intentions.

However, I must say that I disagree with your last point. Firstly, I think there are different points to ponder if a person comes from a traditional religious background and decides to covert, or if the person has converted more than once. Secondly, I must say that I take a bit of offence to your last remark, ‘converting to Islam is what counts’. What is important is that people find the right path to lead them towards all that is ‘good’: good thoughts, good deeds, a world of good. If you follow Islam, then we follow the same One. I don’t think He minds what we call ourselves, but how we live our lives.

sara (Jan 6, 08 12:14 PM), converting to Islam was Sandra’s choice. Her son is old enough to make his own choices. True faith comes from within; there is no need to push your faith on others.

Curious,
Islam does not have a concept of Mazal (good luck). Islam beleives in Qadr a few examples in the Qur'an:

"No calamity befalls on the earth or in yourselves
but is inscribed in the Book of Decrees -- (Al-Lauh Al-Mahfuz),
before We bring it into existence. Verily, that is easy for Allah"

The Noble Qur'an Al-Hadid 57:22

The Noble Qur'an - At-Tauba 9:51

Say: "Nothing shall ever happen to us except what Allah has ordained for us. He is our Maula (Lord, Helper and Protector)." And in Allah let the believers put their trust.

The Noble Qur'an - Al-Qamar 54:53

And everything, small and big is written (in Al-Lauh Al-Mahfûz already beforehand i.e. before it befalls, or is done by its doer).

The Noble Qur'an - At-Takwir 81:28-29

To whomsoever among you who wills to walk straight, And you will not, unless (it be) that Allâh wills, the Lord of the 'Alamîn (mankind, jinns and all that exists).

Judaism & Christianity are in no way "sister religions" the Noble Qur'an is clear when it states:
3:85 And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers.

Judaism is not based on Taqwa but rather lineage being passed via the mother. So alpi halacha regardless what a bad person a halachakly Jewish person is they have a Neshemah and are zocher for 'Olam Haba' unlike a Muslim who is pious. We see by that your Einstein theory of relativity does not apply here.
You assume we must believe your words over sister Salmah's as if you are the written Gospel. In the video I do see a Mezzuzah on her father's door & her father looks & sounds stereotypically Jewish. I feel your efforts are well worth a paycheck from the ADL. I will standby sister Salmah on this. Our God is One,our Ummah (Nation) is one,Our Allegiance is one. Our animosity is to who ever stands in the way of they above. I must say curious you motivate me to combat evil.
Kind Regards,
Yousef al-Khattab
www.al-buruj.com

Curious,

1. I would like to take the opportunity to thank you for all these comments which indicates to us as Muslims that you are not correctly informed about Islam (no matter how hard you tried to show that you are educated enough, you need to correct your sources before starting a debate).
2. I also like to thank you for the great unplanned opportunity to make people more curious and to spread the word for the non-Muslims to go ahead and read more about Islam from the right resources .
3. When I listened to Sandra/Salma I never took the impression that she was raised as Jews. All what I understood that her background heritage was Jew and that her parents hid that fact very well and lived with no emphases on religions. Then, when she grew up, she learned the fact about her heritage background and so she became Jews. Then later, she converted to Islam.
4.It does not really matter how many time she converted. Even if you end up to say that she converted a thousand time in even a month. She did not lie to say she was a Jew who converted to Islam, whether she was a convert Jew or a birth Jew, I don’t see a difference ( unless if you do in your religion, it would not be the case in Islam. A Muslim is a Muslim by their faith acts of taqwa (piety) not by birth or !!!!!or!!!! ETC…). What matter is who is she going to be from now on as a good Muslim, her relationship with Allah and good manners, modesty, help etc.. to other human beings.

Curious,

You Quote (You and many other here seem to be bonded by a refusal to accept the truth, and I have to wonder why…) I really have nothing else to say but your own words: you are the one how seems to be bonded by refusal to accept the real truth and beauty about Islam, Himmmmm I wonder Why... If Allah ( the creator) himself forgives, you want us to judge her intention for becoming Muslim. I’m sorry to say you are far away from understand the true meaning of Taqwa (Piety), forgiveness.
6. If you really want to get the real story, I would think you should start by getting the real story behind?????????
7. Curious, your last comment was (True faith comes from within; there is no need to push your faith on others.) it is true that faith comes from within, but after reading all your comments, the only one who tried to push the faith on others was you by trying all the time to accuse other Muslims.
8. Also ‘converting to Islam is what counts’ to us as Muslim and it is about the importance of people finding the right path to lead them towards all that is ‘good’: good thoughts, good deeds, a world of good but most importantly a world of One Creator to worship.

This is for you and for Joseph,
If you were put in the spot light of the media as a totally different person of what you are, and you really care about yourself, you would come out and defend yourself not to proof something but to clear the misleading information written about you. Islam do not need to proof a point. Islam is there since life started and will be until it ends. we are not trying to convince the world of the virtues of Islam over other beliefs. The Virtue Of Islam is the believe of the One creator that all other beliefs share too.

Very informative and fair presentation, Once again, great job CBC

Curious, i'm not picking on you, but I just wanted to tell sara that there is nothing wrong with her wishing that Salma's son becomes a Muslim. She is not forcing him, nor is she telling him to become a muslim...its just a simple wish.

And I apologize if saying converting to Islam is what counts...I meant that the fact that she has found the way of life that pleases her is what's important.

God Bless you Sister, welcome to Islam, your story brought many tears and smiles. Welcome again.
Wearing Hijab is not mandatory in Islam, no where in the Quran states that women are obligated to wear hijab, its a cultural & personal choice.

Alhumdulilah (thank God ) I am also a white American that converted to Islam. I live in the US and no one seems to understand. I even changed to a job that I could wear this small item of clothing everyday. Salma seems to have all the same problems I have. No my husband actually didn't want me to wear it! I feel libarated even more now and I wouold never set aside my hijab. Mabrook Salma.

Dear Salma, welcome to Islam, may Allah bless you and thanks to CBC for being so supportive for muslims. If people learn what Islam is all about I am sure no one would talk like "curious". Maggy you said what I really wanted to say to curious and Joseph. But there is one thing I like to add. Curious I have read all your notes and I have a very strong feeling that if you will stick with us one day inshallah you will also convert to Islam because I can feel you are disturbed and sad inside and are trying to take all your anger at dear Salma.
My sincere advice to you is to pick a Holy Quran and read it thoroughly. It will take away all your sadness and will give you such a piece of mind and pleasure that you would had never expierenced.

As an American I appreciate the coverage on this important issue. You have exemplify the true essence of sound reporting; to me that is honorable.

thanks again.

With the perception of Islam and being Muslim in the media nowadays, it is 'refreshing' to see such a story. What many do not know and/or do not see, is the mere fact that Islam DOES NOT promote violence nor does it advocate treating women as second class citizens. In fact, women in Islam are deemed as strong figures. I must state that interpreting passages from the Quran regarding the hijab is purely that, interpretation. The hijab is in fact a cultural function and is not necessarily a 'must' as some will have you believe. The Quran dictates that women AND men should dress modestly. This has been interpreted in many ways and currently, for women, to cover their head. Modern thinkers are seeing the hijab from a different point of view such as this website: www.brownmanclothing.com. This clothing company wants to communicate that women who wear the hijab are not submissive or repressed.

Yousef, this story has nothing to do with defamation of Jews…it has to do with someone misleading the public by pretending to be Jewish. Your remark about the ADL was unnecessary.

When I used the expression ‘mazel tov’, I must admit I was not considering its deeper representation of the expression. Thank you for your clarification on Islam’s take on the concept of luck and destiny.

You are right that unlike Islam Judaism is based on matriarchal lineage. However, regarding Neshama and Olam Haba, and who qualifies (i.e. a right by lineage, or reserved for the pious of whatever faith), I think that whatever interpretations have been debated over the years, only those who have passed away are in a position to know the outcome of our choices…Time will tell us all, but IMHO whatever halacha dictates, common sense and a pure heart can overrule the interpretations written by men.

Regarding Salma’s word versus mine, if you did a little looking you would find out quite easily that my statements are true. However, that seems to be irrelevant to most of the posters, as only one person has even considered that Salma could possibly have lied.

I would like to know exactly how does someone ‘look & sound stereotypically Jewish’…are you referring to his central European features and German accent? Just like Muslims, Jews come with a lot of different ‘looks’. That remark makes me wonder if you really were once Jewish after all.

Yousef, I always find it strange that the political powers within the 3 monotheistic religions spend so much energy marking our differences instead of strengthening our common bonds. You have done a fine job of highlighting how marginalised those who do not follow Islam are/will be.

However, you seem to forget that not only did we all started at the same point (Abram), but we all believe in the same One; call Him Alla, God, or HaShem. It is not the name that counts, but what comes from the heart. The divisions you draw must be breaking His…

Instead of "combating evil", try creating some good.

Maggy,

I would like to know where you got that impression that I seem to be ‘be bonded by refusal to accept the real truth and beauty about Islam’? I have not been debating Islam, but Salma’s misleading story. I can see the beauty in all religions, as well as their flaws. As for the truth of Islam, I believe we are all free to choose our faiths, and mine is my own. I only bow to One.

Nowhere did I ask anyone to judge Salma’s intentions for becoming a Muslim. Becoming a Muslim is not the issue. The issue I raised was Salma’s lies, and why it is so important to maintain her story. I have no problem forgiving, so I shall patiently await her apology for slandering me when I told the truth.

6. ????? Sorry, the real story behind what?

7. I am sorry, I am lost again. This ‘discussion’ was not about ‘Muslims’, this is about Salma’s fabricated story, and why no one is open to the possibility that Salma could have lied.

8. I dare not get into the topic of proselytising in Islam, unless you are willing to have an open and mutually respectful debate. I know it is important to you. However, I also hope that you recognise that another’s beliefs are just as important to them. ‘Good’ can be found in many forms.

Sara, if it seems like I am a little on the defensive, perhaps it is due to the responses in here. I am really not so thin-skinned, and will always welcome an interesting debate. No offence taken at all by your backing up (little ‘s’) sara. ;)

However, Salma’s son has enough on his shoulders (yes, I know her son too). I am sure his mother’s multiple conversions have created more doubts than faith.

There is also no need to apologise for the wording of your thoughts regarding converting to Islam. I realise that proselytising is important to both Islam and Christianity, while avoided in Judaism, which is perhaps why I am sensitive to it.

First off, welcome back to Islam Salma! May Allah continue to shower you with blessings. Ameen.

Curious and others who love to bash other religions without having full knowledge, I'd like to tell you guys : get a grip, open up a couple of books and try to learn about the religions rather than hating on them.

Taanya, don’t try to make my posts something that they are not. Please tell me where I have ‘bashed’ Islam or any other religion? I am curious to know where you read ‘hate’ in my words, because there was none. Disappointment yes, although not in Islam, but rather in someone (Sandra) that I once held in higher esteem than what she has proven herself worthy of. (Which has nothing to do with her conversion...) Evidently you either didn’t bother to read my posts, or are only here to propagate your own hate for those who dare to want to be something other than Muslim. Contributions like yours are what create antagonism and more hate.